Maru we-llham (Mauritanian Saharan Spiced Lamb & Caramelized Onion Rice) – Authentic Mauritania Recipe

Ingredients for Maru we-llham (Mauritanian Saharan Spiced Lamb & Caramelized Onion Rice) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender braised lamb or beef, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups fragrant basmati/long-grain rice, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup sweet carrots and caramelized onions
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with cumin
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Mauritania seasoning (coriander, cardamom, garlic, black pepper)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and cumin until golden.
2. Add coriander, cardamom, garlic, black pepper along with tender braised lamb or beef and fragrant basmati/long-grain rice, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with sweet carrots and caramelized onions.